No Smoking Day: Do Cigarettes Make You Poop? A Look at Its Side Effects On Your Bowel

For many, smoking is a favourite pastime. From old-school movie stars to stressed-out office workers to rebellious teenagers, cigarette is their best friend (they say). While the world has educated itself about its ills, there are a few that still cling to their cigarettes for one particular reason: they say it makes them poop.

Yes, you heard that right. Among all the well-documented side effects—lung disease, heart problems, and a distinct aroma that clings to everything you own—some smokers insist that cigarettes keep their bowel movements in tip-top shape. But is there any truth to this claim? And should smokers be worried about what happens to their digestive system when they finally quit on No Smoking Day?

Nicotine, the addictive substance in a cigarette, is a stimulant. It not only wakes up your brain but also gets your digestive system revved up. When you smoke, nicotine releases adrenaline, which, in turn, accelerates your metabolism. This effect gets the muscles of your intestines contracting and pushing them to get things moving more quickly.

This is known as the gastrocolic reflex—something that naturally happens after eating but gets an extra boost from nicotine. For some smokers, this means a cigarette and a morning coffee form the ultimate tag team to ensure they start the day with a successful bathroom trip.

Now, here is the twist. If you have been using cigarettes to keep your digestive system running right, quitting is going to disrupt everything. Constipation is one of the withdrawal symptoms experienced by many individuals who quit smoking. When nicotine is no longer providing your intestines with that extra kick, the bowel movements may slow down first.

But don’t panic! Your gut will eventually adjust, and there are healthier ways to keep things moving. Fibre-rich foods, plenty of water, and regular exercise can all help get your digestion back on track—without the lung damage.

So, if you’re thinking of quitting this No Smoking Day, don’t let the fear of sluggish bowels hold you back. While cigarettes might provide a short-term fix, they come with a long list of long-term risks. And who knows? Maybe after a few weeks, you’ll find that a good bowl of porridge works just as well as a cigarette—without the side effects.

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